Sonicali

Problem:

The sea louse (Caligus rogercresseyi) is a major recurring parasite in the salmon industry, affecting 99% of production centers. Its presence leads to stress, reduced feed efficiency, longer growth time, fish injuries, higher treatment costs, and annual losses of $400 million due to various factors (Chile).

Idea:

Sonicali utilizes ultrasonic emitters placed in salmon nets' corners, creating mechanical waves through software-coordinated constructive interference. These waves induce micro-pressure changes that fatally harm sea lice (Caligus). The system includes both hardware and software components with an easy-to-use panel in the cages. It leverages technology for self-correction and allows the resonance zone's movement. Sonicali's design prevents sound leakage, causing no harm to coexisting species.

Main Beneficiaries:

Chile exports salmon worth $6.5 billion, with the industry facing recurring issues from the sea louse parasite, especially among the top 10 companies controlling 80% of production. Our focus is on offering the Sonicali service to salmon companies like AquaChile and Blumar, aiming to serve the Chilean market and potentially expand internationally. The potential market size is $920 million per production cycle, with our primary clients being these companies, operating in southern Chile from Araucanía to Magallanes.

Stage:

Inspiration and ideation

SDG:

GOAL 14: Life Below Water

GOAL 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

University:

Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile